Journal of Veterinary Science

The Korean Society of Veterinary Science (대한수의학회)
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Evaluation of improved transvenous heartworm extraction brush in dogs with caval syndrome

  • Jihyun Kim (Department of Veterinary Medical Imaging, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jeonbuk National University) ;
  • Junemoe Jeong (Standard Animal Medical Center) ;
  • Kanghyo Park (Bundang Leaders Animal Medical Center) ;
  • Kyoungin Shin (Western Animal Medical Center) ;
  • In Sung Jang (Ansim Animal Medical Center) ;
  • Hakyoung Yoon (Department of Veterinary Medical Imaging, College of Veterinary Medicine, Jeonbuk National University)
  • Received : 2023.01.03
  • Accepted : 2023.04.28
  • Published : 2023.07.31
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Abstract

Background: Heartworm infection in dogs is caused by Dirofilaria immitis and common in shelter animals and outdoors dogs. Caval syndrome can develop with severe infection and physical heartworm removal is essential with heartworm burdens. In this study, we used an improved transvenous heartworm extraction brush, which was expected to cause less cardiovascular damage and allow easier manipulation. Objectives: This study aims to evaluate efficacy of this improved transvenous heartworm extraction brush. Methods: The brush was designed to improve upon the limitations of the previous brush-type devices. The brush was made of a polyvinyl chloride tube and threads of polyamides or polyglyconates. Metal material was inserted at the front tip for easy visualization under fluoroscopy. The eight dogs diagnosed with caval syndrome with large numbers of heartworms and pulmonary hypertension were used in this study. The removal procedure began with the dissection of the subcutaneous tissue around the right jugular vein. The device was inserted through the jugular vein. After insertion, the tube was rotated to catch the heartworms and extracted with the heartworms hanging on the threads. The procedure was repeated several times. Lastly, jugular vein and skin sutures were made. Adulticidal therapy was administered after heartworm removal. Results: The mean number of removed heartworms was 10.5 ± 4.24 and mean number of remaining heartworms was 0.63 ± 1.06. Total procedure time was 72.63 ± 51.36. Except for three cases, heartworms were not detected on ultrasonography after the procedure. No procedure-related side effects were observed within the 1- to 2-mon. Conclusions: An improved transvenous heartworm extraction brush is efficient for heartworm removal in dogs with caval syndrome.

Keywords

Acknowledgement

We would like to thank Able Implant & Instrument for their assistance with making the instrument.

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